Holly Herman's blog about Berks County courts.

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Emotions run rampant when defendant is convicted of first-degree murder

Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt | Donald E. Williams Jr. on his way to court before a jury convicted him Wednesday of first-degree murder.

The evidence in the murder trial of Donald E. Williams came down to who was more believable: Williams or the victim, his ex-girlfriend, Maria Serrano.

The primary prosecution evidence came from Serrano, who said on a 9-1-1 tape and to her friends, fire and ambulance personnel that she was burned by Williams.

The primary evidence from the defense was Williams’ testimony that Williams went to visit Serrano around 11 a.m. he found Serrano partially dressed with his brother, Marvin. Williams said he hit Serrano and tried to kill his brother.

Marvin testified he was not there.

It took the panel six hours to side with the prosecution and convict Williams of first-degree murder in the 2009 fatal burning.

About 30 relative and friend hugged and cried when the verdict was announced at 1:50 p.m.

Judge Scott D. Keller took a 20-minute break to allow the witnesses to calm down and celebrate while the lawyers prepared for the sentencing phase of the trial. The jury will decide whether to sentence Williams to death or life in prison.

The victim’s family members described Serrano as a strong, caring and loving person.

The jury listened to Serrano’s daughter, Jessica; her brother, Luis; and Serrano’s sister, Sarah Soto, express pain and sorrow of their loss.